The Hershey Company is set to capture the attention of chocolate enthusiasts with its latest offering: the limited-edition Hershey's Dubai-Inspired Chocolate Bar. This unique product, which combines creamy pistachio, crispy kadayif and Hershey's iconic milk chocolate, is poised to sell out quickly, with only 10,000 bars available for purchase. Launching on 4 December 2025 at 10am ET, Hershey's Dubai-Inspired Chocolate Bar will retail for $8.99 and will be exclusively available through Gopuff in select cities, including New York, Philadelphia and Chicago. Megan Pantalone, senior manager of innovation at The Hershey Company, said: "Not every trend gets the Hershey's treatment. When something takes over social media like this, we knew it deserved a one-of-a-kind release." The decision to limit production to just 10,000 bars reflects a strategic move to create urgency and excitement among consumers, particularly among collectors and trend hunters eager to partake in this fleeting moment. This approach aligns with Hershey's broader strategy of leveraging social media trends to drive product innovation and engagement. The Hershey's Dubai-Inspired Chocolate Bar features a blend of flavours that reflect the culinary influences of Dubai, making it a standout addition to the brand's portfolio. As a one-time-only release, the product is not expected to be restocked, driving home its exclusivity.

Sustainable packaging provider Go-Pak UK and parent company SCG Packaging (SCGP) have launched Go-Recycle, a closed-loop recycling program for old corrugated cardboard (OCC). The service enables brands to return used cardboard for reuse in new packaging, supporting a circular economy and helping businesses meet sustainability targets. Go-Recycle collects OCC alongside regular product deliveries and sends it to SCGP’s Papermills in Thailand and Vietnam, where it is repurposed into new cardboard and non-food packaging products. By integrating collection with delivery, the programme reduces logistics complexity, transport emissions and costs, while ensuring supply continuity amid volatile OCC markets. The launch aligns with the UK’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations, which require producers to manage the full lifecycle of packaging, including recycling and disposal. It also supports Go-Pak UK and SCGP’s target of achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The service addresses growing demand from brands under pressure to reduce waste, meet environmental targets, and demonstrate responsible sourcing. Tim Allen, operations director at Go-Pak UK, said: "We’re thrilled to launch Go-Recycle. The service is a unique offering that the industry has needed for a long time, with no other major suppliers currently providing a comparable solution. It’s a simple, efficient and sustainable cycle that keeps valuable resources in use for longer." "Our approach also helps brands streamline operations and reduce supply chain friction by integrating product delivery and recycling collection seamlessly into daily processes." Lynn Creighton, group product technical manager at Go-Pak UK, added: "Go-Recycle supports regulatory and corporate commitments around reused content in packaging, including the new regulation introduced in April 2025 for separate recyclable waste streams. “With global demand for recycled materials projected to grow, especially in packaging and non-food cardboard products, companies offering efficient closed-loop solutions are better positioned to strengthen their sustainability credentials and meet increasing ESG and regulatory requirements."

In the UK, oat milk brand Oatly has unveiled its latest offerings: a new range of ready-to-drink iced coffees designed for the growing grab-and-go market. This launch reflects the company’s commitment to meeting evolving consumer preferences, particularly among younger demographics. The new lineup includes two variants: Oatly Barista Iced Flat White and Oatly Barista Iced Caramel Macchiato. Each product combines high-quality Arabica coffee with Oatly's signature creamy oat base, catering to consumers seeking both flavour and convenience. Iced Macchiato is characterised by its smooth blend of coffee and caramel, while Iced Flat White delivers a robust coffee experience for those desiring a stronger flavour profile. Both variants are shelf-stable prior to opening, offering retailers and consumers flexibility in storage. However, Oatly recommends serving these drinks chilled or over ice for optimal taste. The ready-to-drink cans are currently available in over 400 Tesco locations across the UK, positioned in the iced coffee aisle. Bryan Carroll, general manager for Oatly UK and Ireland, said: “This ambient ready-to-drink format has been developed with the growing grab-and-go audience in mind". he added: "We are witnessing a significant shift in coffee consumption habits, particularly among Gen Z, who are driving the trend towards cold coffee formats. As we approach the New Year, we anticipate a positive reception for these new offerings.” Oatly’s commitment to health and sustainability is evident in its product formulations. The new iced coffees are dairy and soy-free, enriched with calcium, riboflavin and vitamins B12 and D. They are low in salt and saturated fat, and free from added sugars, sweeteners, emulsifiers, stabilisers, colours and artificial flavours. Notably, Oatly products consistently demonstrate a lower climate impact compared to traditional dairy options. Earlier this year, Oatly achieved recognition as the first food brand designated as a Climate Solutions Company by the Exponential Roadmap Initiative. This accolade highlights the company's role in promoting plant-based alternatives as a means for consumers to reduce their environmental footprint. Oatly Barista Iced Caramel Macchiato and Iced Flat White are now available in Tesco at a recommended retail price of £2 per 235ml can.

Nestlé is reportedly exploring the sale of its premium coffee chain, Blue Bottle Coffee, as part of a broader strategic review initiated by new CEO Philipp Navratil . According to Reuters, sources close to the matter have confirmed that the Swiss food giant is collaborating with Morgan Stanley to assess various options, including a potential divestiture of the brand, which has garnered a loyal following since its inception. Nestlé acquired a majority stake in Blue Bottle Coffee in 2017 for approximately $700 million, aiming to capitalise on the burgeoning speciality coffee market. However, recent reports suggest that any sale could be valued at a discount to that initial investment, as the company seeks to streamline its operations and exit the physical retail segment – a trend increasingly observed across the food and beverage industry. Founded in 2002 by James Freeman in Oakland, California, Blue Bottle Coffee has grown into a premium coffee retailer with approximately 100 locations across the US and Asia. The brand is known for its commitment to quality, sourcing beans from sustainable farms and highlighting freshness through small-batch roasting. In addition to its cafés, Blue Bottle has established a robust ecommerce platform, selling coffee grounds and branded merchandise. Nestlé's decision to potentially divest Blue Bottle aligns with a broader industry trend, as major players reassess their portfolios in response to shifting consumer preferences and market conditions. Notably, Coca-Cola is also considering the sale of its Costa Coffee chain, highlighting a growing focus on optimising brand assets within the competitive coffee landscape. The review at Nestlé is not limited to Blue Bottle. Earlier this year, the company announced plans to evaluate its vitamin brands, including Nature's Bounty and Osteo Bi-Flex, and may also be looking to divest its water business, which encompasses iconic brands such as Perrier and S.Pellegrino.

Good Kynd, a newly launched lifestyle drinks brand founded by two former accountants, has entered the UK market with what it says is the country’s first ready-to-drink iced chai latte containing added prebiotic fibre. The business was founded after co-founder Sophie’s interest in gut wellbeing and the pair’s plans to offer a smoother, non-carbonated alternative to functional drinks, many of which are fizzy. Its debut product is a 250ml iced chai latte made with an oat milk base, 4g of added fibre and no added sugar. The vegan, gluten-free drink is positioned as providing a café-style chai flavour suitable for on-the-go consumption. Good Kynd says the product brings together traditional chai flavours with prebiotic fibre to offer a flavour-led option within the growing functional drinks category, and a way for consumers to increase fibre intake. The brand is targeting premium grocery, cafés, boutique hospitality and wellness-led retail. It uses fully recyclable aluminium cans and plans to introduce charitable initiatives focused on community support and conscious living. Good Kynd aims to differentiate itself through its non-carbonated format, functional positioning and flavour profile as it seeks to make chai a regular choice for modern consumers.

In a move to streamline its portfolio, Unilever has announced the sale of its healthier snacking brand, Graze, to Katjes International, the parent company of the popular candy brand Candy Kittens. The transaction, which is expected to close in the first half of 2026, marks Unilever's continued effort to refocus its business strategy away from certain food segments toward beauty and wellness products. Unilever acquired Graze in 2019 as part of its expansion into the health-conscious snack market. Since then, the brand has evolved from a primarily direct-to-consumer model to a robust presence in UK retail, achieving notable profitability and growth. Under Unilever’s stewardship, Graze has undergone a rebranding effort, enhancing its visual identity to attract a broader consumer base. Georgina Bradford, general manager of UKI Foods at Unilever, said: “Graze has redefined healthy snacking with innovations that prioritise nutrition without compromising on taste. We believe it is now well-positioned for its next phase of growth under Katjes International, which will provide the dedicated focus necessary to advance its mission.” Katjes International, known for its commitment to producing high-quality confections, sees the acquisition of Graze as a strategic fit within its portfolio. Bastian Fassin, managing shareholder of Katjes, stated: “Graze is a leading healthy snacking brand in the UK. Its strong brand awareness aligns perfectly with our strategy to grow consumer-centric brands that resonate with health-conscious consumers.” Jamie Laing, founder of Candy Kittens, added: “Graze changed the way the UK thinks about healthier snacking. I am excited about the potential to further develop this innovative brand.” Unilever has indicated plans to divest other historic food brands as it seeks to concentrate on high-growth categories such as condiments and meal solutions. This pivot reflects an evolving marketplace where consumer preferences are shifting towards health and wellness. While financial terms of the agreement remain undisclosed, the sale of Graze is expected to enhance Katjes International’s portfolio and strengthen its position in the competitive healthy snacking segment.

Lindt is introducing a new limited-edition product, the Tokyo Style Chocolate Matcha Strawberry bar. The bar features ceremonial grade Chamei Minami matcha, Genmai roasted rice and Swiss white chocolate, along with strawberry pieces. The flavour is inspired by Japanese tea traditions, combining matcha and roasted rice with fruit and white chocolate. According to Lindt, the Chamei Minami matcha provides a bright and balanced flavour to complement the strawberry and white chocolate. Stefan Bruderer, master chocolatier at Lindt & Sprüngli, said:  “After seeing the reaction to our Lindt Dubai Style Chocolate over the past year, we’re excited to continue our culinary journey, this time to Japan, and launch a new innovation that combines the finest Swiss chocolate craftmanship with the secrets of traditional tea ceremonies using Japanese matcha”. The bar will be available exclusively at Lindt’s London Piccadilly flagship store from 6 December, priced at £15. Only 200 bars will be released, each hand-numbered and limited to one per customer.

Joe & The Juice has expanded into Latin America with the opening of its first store in Mexico City. The new location, situated in Colonia Roma Norte, opened last week following a soft launch. The Mexico City site marks the brand’s debut in the region and forms part of its ongoing global expansion, which now includes more than 460 stores worldwide. According to the company, Mexico offers an atmosphere and café culture aligned with the brand’s identity. Joe & The Juice described the opening as the start of a new chapter for its international growth.

WRAP has confirmed the first 53 organisations to sign the UK Packaging Pact, a new ten-year voluntary agreement set to launch in April 2026 and replace the UK Plastics Pact. The new pact expands the focus from plastics to all commonly used packaging materials. It will involve companies across food and drink, beauty, pet care and household goods, as well as retailers, recyclers and industry bodies. Founding signatories include ASDA, Arla, Haleon, Lidl, Yeo Valley, GoUnpackaged, PackUK, Biffa, SUEZ Recycling Recovery UK and Veolia. The programme aims to redesign packaging to reduce waste and emissions, increase reuse and fully integrate packaging into a circular economy. It will support businesses as major reforms – including packaging extended producer responsibility (EPR), Simpler Recycling and deposit return schemes – roll out. WRAP said the pact will focus on four goals: optimising packaging, scaling reuse and refill, supporting investment in circular infrastructure, and harmonising data to improve traceability. WRAP CEO Catherine David, said: “Collaboration works and it’s delivering real change. Unrecyclable black plastic is gone, recycling is rising and unnecessary packaging is disappearing. But the scale of the challenge demands more. Plastic pollution remains a global crisis, and with the failure to secure a global treaty, the need for bold, systemic action has never been greater." "We must accelerate the step change to circular living, driving reuse, tackling plastic film and enabling the impact of upcoming recycling reforms. This is collective action at its most ambitious and essential, and WRAP is proud to lead the charge toward a truly circular future.” Circular economy minister Mary Creagh added: “Government and businesses must ensure packaging is used time and time again. Our new extended producer responsibility scheme will turbocharge this shift to more sustainable packaging. I pay tribute to the 53 world-leading companies who have signed up to the UK Packaging Pact and pledged to go further and faster in delivering greener packaging.” The UK Packaging Pact builds on the UK Plastics Pact, launched in 2018, which is now nearing completion. A progress report published today shows: 99.9% of problematic plastics eliminated 80% of polystyrene and PVC removed 726 million problematic items removed ahead of bans 36,000 tonnes of hard-to-recycle packaging phased out 70% of plastic food packaging now reusable, recyclable or compostable Plastic recycling up to 53% Recycled content increased from 8.5% to 28% WRAP is continuing discussions with major brands, retailers and manufacturers across sectors ahead of the pact’s full launch next year.

Refreshment brings you monthly updates on the latest news and insights from some of our member associations in the vending, coffee and water sectors. Featuring insights from industry leaders, this round-up highlights key developments, events and initiatives shaping the future of these industries, providing essential information on emerging trends and regulatory changes. Water updates The water sector continues to evolve with innovative technologies, sustainability initiatives and industry events driving progress. From watercoolers to hydration solutions, here’s what’s happening in this space: Natural Mineral Waters Europe (NMWE) NMWE joins industry opposition to Slovakia’s proposed state-run EPR scheme Natural Mineral Waters Europe (NMWE) has joined more than 40 organisations in opposing a Slovak government proposal that would allow the state-run Environmental Fund to operate as a Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO) within the country’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system. The amendment to the Environmental Fund Act has prompted concern across the packaging value chain, with industry groups warning that a state-controlled PRO could compromise the efficiency and transparency of Slovakia’s packaging waste management system. NMWE has co-signed a joint statement with EUROPEN and other industry bodies urging Slovak authorities and EU policymakers to reject the proposal. The statement argues that Slovakia’s EPR framework should meet EU minimum requirements under the Waste Framework Directive, support recyclability goals set out in the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, and follow established international producer-responsibility principles. The organisations call instead for producer-led EPR schemes, which they say are better suited to delivering circular and effective packaging waste management. International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) Bottled water recycling gains ground on America Recycles Day On America Recycles Day, the International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) highlighted the impact of recycling empty bottled water containers. According to the National Association of PET Container Resources (NAPCOR), PET plastic bottles have an 89% success rate of being fully recycled when placed in curbside bins. Recycled PET plastic is increasingly used to make new bottles, with bottle-to-bottle recycling averaging 16.4% across all PET containers in 2023. IBWA emphasises that keeping caps on bottles helps ensure they are recycled, as loose caps often fail to pass through material recovery facilities. Bottled water containers now make up 51% of all PET bottles in curbside bins, the data shows. All bottled water bottles – plastic, glass or aluminum – are 100% recyclable, with PET #1 and HDPE #2 containers among the most commonly recycled plastics. Large 3- and 5-gallon bottles are returned to bottlers for cleaning and refilling up to 40 times before being recycled. IBWA partners with Keep America Beautiful’s America Recycles Day initiative, as well as national programmes such as the Put It In The Bin campaign and The Recycling Partnership, to educate consumers on recycling and reduce landfill waste. Watercoolers Europe Watercoolers Europe Holds 2025 Conference & Trade Fair in Milan Watercoolers Europe (WE) hosted its 2025 Conference & Trade Fair on 6-7 November in Milan, gathering industry leaders, manufacturers, suppliers and experts from across Europe. The event featured presentations on market trends, HORECA opportunities, AI-driven marketing, cybersecurity and customer engagement strategies. Workshops on technical compliance, legislation, and marketing offered practical insights for attendees. The Trade Fair showcased new products, technologies and sustainable solutions, reflecting the sector’s focus on quality, efficiency and environmental responsibility. At the Aqua Awards Gala Dinner, WE recognised achievements in innovation, sustainability, marketing, and social impact. The event also marked the retirement of Gustav Felix, WE’s long-serving Director General. Refreshment magazine also attended the event and published a review, which can be read here . WE is already planning next year’s conference to continue promoting collaboration and best practices in the European watercooler industry. Vending and coffee updates The vending, automated retail and coffee sectors are rapidly evolving, with new initiatives, industry events and regulatory developments shaping its future. Here’s what’s happening in this sector this month: European Vending & Coffee Service Association (EVA) German vending industry gathers for VendCon 2025 in Hamburg Hamburg hosted VendCon 2025 on 6-7 November, the annual meeting of the German vending sector, attracting 278 participants and 16 exhibitors. At the event, the German Vending Association (BDV) reported record membership, now totaling 444 members, including 39 new members over the past year. The BDV also announced plans to launch a women’s network in 2026 to promote mentoring, leadership diversity and professional exchange. The European Vending Association (EVA), represented by director general Erwin Wetzel, praised the BDV’s growth and emphasised the importance of collaboration on key industry challenges. Next year’s event, 'BDV AGM meets VendCon,' will take place in Cologne on 19-20 November 2026, promising new topics, networking opportunities and industry insights. The Vending & Automated Retail Association (AVA) Paul Fitzjohn named AVA communications and events manager The Vending & Automated Retail Association (AVA) has appointed Paul Fitzjohn as its new communications and events manager. Fitzjohn brings over 17 years of experience in retail, FMCG, financial services and corporate communications. He joins from Awaze, where he led multi-brand communications and introduced AI initiatives across Europe. Previous roles include senior communications positions at Asda, McCain Foods, Evri and Morrisons, focusing on internal communications, ESG strategies, crisis management and employee engagement. At AVA, Fitzjohn will oversee all communications, digital content, member engagement and events, including webinars, regional meetings and the annual Christmas Luncheon. David Llewellyn, chief executive of the AVA, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Paul to the AVA team. His energy and communications expertise will help us raise the profile of our industry and bring real value to our members as we continue to grow and innovate.”

The Trieste Coffee Experts is a summit conceived and promoted by Bazzara, a historic family-run roastery in Trieste, Italy, with the aim of fostering connections, sharing knowledge and spreading the culture of quality coffee. Launched in 2014, the event has quickly established itself as a reference point for dialogue among the key players in the Italian and international coffee scene. Every two years, Trieste – one of the capitals of Italian espresso – hosts two full days of meetings, speeches and panels, held in the elegant halls of the Savoia Excelsior Palace, Starhotels Collezione. Here, opinion leaders, roasters, academics and professionals from across the coffee supply chain discuss crucial topics for the future of the industry, from innovation to sustainability, from raw material quality to the integration of automation and artificial intelligence in production processes. The summit stems from the vision of brothers Franco and Mauro Bazzara, respectively president and CEO of the company, who are aware that the coffee world needs concrete opportunities for discussion. This philosophy, built on collaboration and the creation of a shared vision, reflects the spirit with which the Bazzara family has been promoting Made in Italy and the espresso ritual as a symbol of excellence and conviviality for over fifty years. Coffee Megatrends: Innovation and sustainability at the forefront The theme of the 2025 edition, 'Coffee Megatrends,' explores the trends reshaping the coffee world: from Industry 5.0 to blockchain in the supply chain, from the circular economy to tackling climate change. At a time when sustainability and innovation are strategic levers, the summit provides roasters, producers and industry professionals with practical tools to face future challenges and create shared growth opportunities. Two days of insight and inspiration The event will span two complementary days, featuring talks and panels by sector experts delving into innovation, sustainability and digital strategies to enhance the supply chain. This year, the summit introduces two new initiatives: the 'Coffee General Assembly,' to discuss the future trajectories of Made in Italy with the presidents of major industry associations and the “Roasters’ Think Tank,” a dedicated idea lab bringing together roasters from north to south Italy. Prestigious partners and sponsors The strength of Trieste Coffee Experts also lies in strategic collaborations with leading partners such as Alkaff, ClubHouse, Caffè Kimbo, Brita and Caffè Borbone, and industry leaders like Simonelli Group, IMF, PulyCaff Asachimici and Ima Coffee Petroncini. The event has also worked with distinguished guests including Father Benanti, AI expert for the UN, the Vatican and Italian government; and Michele Cannone, global brand director at Lavazza. This network underscores the global reach of the initiative and its ability to attract an international professional audience, supported by live streaming with simultaneous translation in English. Building the future together Trieste Coffee Experts is more than an event: it is a laboratory of ideas, a networking opportunity and a chance to view the coffee world from fresh perspectives. As Andrea Bazzara, event director of the Trieste summit, emphasises: “Events like Trieste Coffee Experts provide essential spaces for culture and teamwork: places where, through debate, it is possible to share common challenges and identify joint solutions, especially in sensitive moments like the one our sector is experiencing.” Discover more and follow the live broadcast here .

Krispy Kreme has launched three new limited-edition doughnuts as part of its first US collaboration with Peanuts. Available from 29 November, the Krispy Kreme x Peanuts Collection introduces: Snoopy Cookies & Kreme Doughnut – a Snoopy-shaped doughnut filled with Cookies & Kreme and dipped in vanilla icing. Charlie Brown Ornament Doughnut – a shell doughnut with brownie batter–flavoured filling and yellow vanilla icing, finished with a chocolate buttercreme zig-zag and ornament hook. Christmas Wreath Doughnut – an Original Glazed topped with green buttercreme swirl, yellow nonpareils and a Snoopy-and-Woodstock sugar piece. Two seasonal items also return: the Santa Belly Doughnut and the Holiday Sprinkle Doughnut. The range is sold in a themed dozen box at participating US stores for a limited time, and select items will also be available in six-packs at certain retailers. Scott Shillet, VP of global licensing for Peanuts, said: “Peanuts has brought joy to fans during the holiday season for decades. As we celebrate Peanuts’ 75th anniversary this year, we look to collaborate with partners like Krispy Kreme to continue that tradition for fans of all ages.”